The client is a lover of architectures who subscribe to architecture specialized magazines from western Japan. This project began with their wish to live with their newborn daughter in the Tokyo area where they get used to.

The plot is in a recess of a street, favorably near to Komazawa Park in a tranquil residential area. To minimize the influence of eyes and noise from the mechanical car park in the vicinity, the family requested thick and thus safe concrete for the material.

With a slit window on the façade, we intended to design “closeness” to secure their privacy. On the other hand, the inner space holds an unexpected spacious interior.

From the spare room and the study on the first floor, velvet scene of the garden where the wife takes the major role can be appreciated. Going up to the second floor emerges one-room court house which contains 3 small and large light courts arranged at random. The core space zigzagging sequentially, this small plot is maximized respectively with transparent glasses.

“Open but close” is the main concept of SHELL placed in a dense but green abundant area. The art of light performance will give this house a vivid and placid life.